AliousTom Davies has admitted that he felt a sense of staleness at Everton, leading him to believe it was the right time to embark on a new chapter in his career.
The midfielder, who graduated from the club’s academy, made a blistering impact in the first team, scoring a magnificent goal against Manchester City just two weeks after his debut at the age of 17 in 2016.
Davies went on to become Everton’s youngest-ever captain at 20 years and 60 days, but the constant changing of managers soon took a toll on his career.
He played under a total of 10 different managers, including caretakers, and although he enjoyed a fine 2020-21 campaign under Carlo Ancelotti, the Italian’s departure to Real Madrid proved to be a turning point.
Despite working under Rafa Benitez, Frank Lampard, and Sean Dyche, Davies saw his game time diminish.
After 179 appearances and seven goals for his boyhood club, he decided to depart last summer and join Sheffield United on a free transfer, rejecting a new contract offer from Everton boss Dyche.
“I think sometimes you know when the time has come, and that’s how I felt at Everton.
It’s a great club, and I loved every part of it,” Davies told LiverpoolWorld. “Being back in Liverpool and seeing the new stadium, it looks incredible. But I felt it was right for me to move on. Deep down, you know it’s the time. Of course, it was time to leave, but I’m excited about the next chapters ahead.”
Davies acknowledged the difficulties of constant managerial changes but also recognized the valuable lessons he learned about different systems, formations, and styles of play, which he believes will benefit him in the long run.
“I’ve got to say Carlo (was his best manager! He was great – I was gutted when he left, and I would have loved to have continued to work with him. He brought so many good things out of me. I had a really good season under him, and when he left, we had a lot of changeover.
That was when I didn’t really feel connected or part of the club, and that’s where it started when I wanted to find my own way.”
Davies endured a frustrating maiden season at Sheffield United due to injuries, but the former England under-21 international is hungry to show the club’s fans what he is capable of in the Championship next term.
“I wanted to get out there and show the club who put faith in me the qualities I have and what I can bring to the table,” Davies said.
“Unfortunately, it wasn’t the way, but next season is a great chance to rebuild, and we aim to get back in the Premier League.
For me, it’s about getting back on the pitch and enjoying it again.”
Alious
